This book captures the evolutionary path of the social economy, the political and ideological currents that shaped it, its adoption and support by the EU and other international organizations, the individuals and policies that played a significant role in shaping it, as well as the programs and financial tools that supported and continue to support social economy actors. It also reflects on the schools of thought on social entrepreneurship and business models. Furthermore, it analyzes all the mechanisms for measuring the social impact arising from the operation and actions of social enterprises at an economic, social, and environmental level.